Additional Coverage:
- TikTok says moderator error delayed removal of Perez Hilton’s livestream showing acts of self-harm (foxbusiness.com)
TikTok reported on Wednesday that a moderator error caused a delay in removing a livestream that appeared to show celebrity blogger Perez Hilton engaging in self-harm.
Emergency responders arrived at Hilton’s Miami residence Tuesday evening following multiple calls triggered by the livestream. The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office confirmed Hilton was safely taken into custody and transported by Miami-Dade Fire Rescue to a local hospital, where he is currently receiving medical care.
According to a TikTok spokesperson, the livestream was flagged within minutes of going live, but a mistake by a moderator delayed its removal. The platform immediately informed law enforcement and confirmed the content violated its Community Guidelines. Subsequent livestreams by Hilton were removed within 90 seconds, and his account was banned.
A source familiar with the situation told Fox News Digital that Hilton, whose birth name is Mario Armando Lavandeira Jr., was placed under Florida’s Baker Act for an involuntary psychiatric evaluation after exhibiting multiple wounds and cuts. The Baker Act permits emergency psychiatric evaluation lasting up to 72 hours for individuals experiencing mental health crises. The source added that Hilton is alive and has superficial cuts on his body.
Hilton’s family and representatives issued a statement expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support and asking for privacy during this difficult time. “Perez is receiving medical care, and our family’s focus right now is on his well-being,” the statement said. They promised to provide updates when possible.
The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office noted that its Crisis Response Unit and mental health professionals responded to the scene to support Hilton’s family. A spokesperson detailed that deputies received multiple reports of self-harm livestreamed on social media, located Hilton’s residence, and engaged with family members. The department emphasized the use of crisis intervention techniques aimed at de-escalation to minimize harm and avoid escalation during mental health emergencies.
Perez Hilton gained prominence with the launch of his celebrity gossip website in 2004 and is recognized as a notable entertainment commentator online. This incident highlights ongoing concerns about the responsibilities social media platforms have in managing sensitive content and responding swiftly to crises.